Frequently Asked Questions

Do I require a referral

No, you do not require a referral. Sessions can be billed as Private Sessions.

Is counselling for me?

Starting counselling can feel unfamiliar, but it’s a powerful step towards reclaiming your voice and honouring your story. It’s a space to explore beneath the surface, gain clarity, build emotional strength, and reconnect with who you are—beyond the challenges. Together, we look at what’s holding you back and gently work towards growth, resilience, and lasting change.

Do you only counsel women?

While I have a special interest in supporting women and understanding their unique perspectives, I also work with and welcome people of all genders and identities-including men, children, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. I focus on tailoring my approach to suit each individual's needs.

If I have a health emergency?

In the event of a health emergency, please call 000 or contact your doctor immediately. While we can support you through challenging times and offer crisis management within our sessions, we do not provide an emergency or crisis response service. If you're in immediate danger or need urgent help, please seek assistance from emergency services or a dedicated crisis support line.

What do I need for online counselling?

You’ll need a reliable internet connection, a microphone, headphones and a camera. It’s also important to have a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable and can engage in the session without distractions. This helps create a sense of safety and presence, allowing you to get the most out of our time together.

Cancellation policy

We genuinely value your time and appreciate you respecting ours. This policy helps ensure the sustainability of our practice while allowing us to offer cancelled appointments to others in need. We understand that life can be unpredictable, and you may need to cancel or reschedule from time to time. You’re welcome to do so without incurring any fees if you provide more than 24 hours' notice. Please text or email to reschedule or arrange refund.

If I am running late to my appointment?

Please text me on 0413 559 349.

Is payment required on the day of my consultation, and how do I pay?

Yes, payment is due at the time of your consultation. We accept bank transfers or cash.

Rebates and Insurance

No Medicare rebates are available, and we do not accept any Private Insurance.

DISCLAIMER: This site is not a medical advice service. Nothing on this site should be considered as medical advice.

Privacy Policy

Virginia Hayem is dedicated to protecting your privacy and ensuring the confidentiality of your personal information. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information in compliance with the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth). For more information on the Australian Privacy Principles, please visit the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner at www.oaic.gov.au.

What is Personal Information and Why Do We Collect It?

Personal information is any information or opinion that identifies an individual. Examples include your name, contact details, and health information.

We collect personal information through various means, including:

Direct interactions (e.g., consultations, emails)
Our website: www.virginiahayem.com.au
Publicly available sources

We use this information to:

Provide our services to you
Communicate with you
Improve our services
Comply with legal obligations

You may unsubscribe from our communications at any time by contacting us.

Sensitive Information

Sensitive information includes details about your health, racial or ethnic origin, political opinions, religious beliefs, or membership in professional bodies. We will only collect and use sensitive information:

For the primary purpose for which it was obtained
For a secondary purpose directly related to the primary purpose
With your consent
Where required or authorised by law

Third Parties

Where reasonable and practicable, we collect personal information directly from you. However, in some cases, we may receive information from third parties. In such instances, we will take steps to ensure you are aware of the information provided.

Disclosure of Personal Information

We may disclose your personal information:

To third parties with your consent
Where required or authorised by law

We do not sell or trade your personal information.

Security of Personal Information

We implement reasonable measures to protect your personal information from misuse, loss, and unauthorised access. When your personal information is no longer needed, we will take steps to destroy or de-identify it.

Access to Your Personal Information

You have the right to access and correct the personal information we hold about you, subject to certain exceptions. To request access, please contact us in writing.

Maintaining the Quality of Your Personal Information

We strive to ensure your personal information is accurate, complete, and up-to-date. If you believe the information we hold is incorrect, please inform us so we can update our records.

Policy Updates

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically. The latest version will be available on our website.

Ethical Standards and Professional Conduct

As a registered practitioner, Virginia Hayem adheres to the ethical guidelines and professional conduct standards set forth by the following organisations:

Australian Counselling Association (ACA): Virginia is a member of the ACA, which commits members to adhere to the ACA Code of Ethics and Practice. This code applies to counselling-related activities and includes standards for clinical practice, research, teaching, supervision, and other professional activities. Australian Counselling Association
Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA): Virginia follows PACFA standards, which sets high standards of ethical conduct for counselling and psychotherapy professionals. The PACFA Code of Ethics guides ethical practice in clinical work, supervision, education, training, professional development, and research. PACFA
National Code of Conduct for Health Care Workers (Queensland): As a health care worker in Queensland, Virginia complies with the National Code of Conduct, which outlines minimum standards for safe and ethical practice. This includes obtaining informed consent, maintaining professional boundaries, protecting client confidentiality, and ensuring services are provided in a safe manner. Queensland Health.

Privacy Policy Complaints and Enquiries

If you have any questions or concerns about our Privacy Policy, please contact us at:

Phone: 0413 559 349
Email: virginia@houseofhayem.com.au
Website: www.virginiahayem.com.au